Liel, 18-year-old international artist, song-writer and peace symbol—began her professional career at the age of 12 when she won the prestigious European talent contest - "Bravo Bravissimo". Liel’s exceptional voice along with her genuinely sweet personality and angelic beauty has captivated audiences all around the world. Since the age 13, Liel has performed and raised money for many organizations including: UNESCO, UNISEF, United Nations, the EU, Vizo, The International Cancer Foundation, Kids Rights, Seeds of Peace and Save a Child’s heart. See what Liel has to say about being a PROUDgirl!

1. Did you or do you ever struggle with low self image? How did you rise above these feelings and embrace the gifts that you do possess?
I’m not thinking about it b/c it is obvious that people will love me more and others will love me less. We all have our own tastes. The thing that guides me is that I’m doing what I love and it’s the most amazing thing. If there are ups and downs I get over it and remember how privileged I am to be doing this. I remind myself that I have this wonderful gift and I see the changes in people after I sing; what I bring out of them. I move on, I remind myself that not everything is perfect. I was born with a mic in my hand and I will die with the mic in my hand.

2. What advice can you give to women who struggle with poor self-esteem or who constantly criticize themselves by comparing themselves to others or not feeling good enough?
Just believe in yourself. Follow dreams because you control your future. If you want something work for it and it will happen. It’s not easy I know, but in the end it’s worth it. You just have to keep thinking about you, it is your life. Thinking about that stuff will always prevent you from living your dream.

3. Who has inspired you in your life? What did he/she do to gain your respect and admiration?
My mother. She has always been there for me. She told me no matter what I do she would stand behind me. Her and my dad, my sister and my brother; I feel so blessed to have a family who supports me. Also, Irit, she is such a strong woman. She sometimes took money out of her pocket to pay for flights, if some of the organizations couldn't, just so that I could go and perform for them. She is a woman with a big heart and a big soul. Celine Dion because, like I said she represents what an artist is.

4. What do you love and admire about yourself?
I’m not one to say…I love what I’m doing. I’m happy that I managed to go after my dream and help others.

5. Part of our mission at hangPROUD is to give back and refocus negative energy into making positive changes in the community and for friends and family. What types of things would you encourage women to do regarding paying it forward and giving back?
Changes don’t have to be so big. Sometimes you can just find out around your area if there is someone in need. Don’t let others do the change, you do it. Go after what you believe. Even if its one person you help, it’s enough. You can maybe donate old clothes or feed someone, whatever you feel you should do to help is bound to make some kind of a difference.

6. Tell us the "words you live by"

Live and let others live. Just do what you love and let others be. Live your life. Don’t judge others if they are different to you or have different dreams. You each do what you are meant to do because we can all learn from each other.